#22 - Can Soy Help with Hot Flashes? Dr. Neal Barnard Explains the Science

In this evidence-packed episode of Thrive on Plants, Dr. Daphne Bascom sits down with Dr. Neal Barnard, renowned researcher, author, and founder of the Barnard Medical Center, to explore how simple dietary changes can dramatically reduce menopause symptoms.

Dr. Barnard shares the origin story behind one of his most impactful studies, inspired by a single woman’s dramatic improvement through three key lifestyle strategies:

• A fully plant-based (vegan) diet
• Minimizing added oils
• Eating half a cup of cooked soybeans daily

Together, they explore:

• The science behind hormonal health through food
• Why isoflavones in soy are effective and what makes whole soybeans superior to other soy products
• How and why women may respond differently to dietary changes
• The role of consistency and adherence in achieving symptom relief

Whether you are navigating menopause, supporting others through it, or simply interested in using food as medicine, this conversation is filled with science-backed insights and practical tips to support long-term health and vitality.

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